Boom's XB-1: First Civil Supersonic Aircraft Flies

Boom Supersonic Achieves Supersonic Flight with XB-1

Boom Supersonic’s XB-1 demonstrator aircraft has successfully achieved supersonic speeds during a test flight above California’s Mojave Desert. This marks the first instance of a civilian aircraft exceeding the speed of sound.

Historic Test Flight Details

During its 12th test flight, the American startup’s aircraft surpassed Mach 1, maintaining supersonic velocity for approximately four minutes and reaching a speed of Mach 1.1. Pilot Tristan Brandenburg executed two additional supersonic maneuvers before safely returning the XB-1 to the Mojave Air & Space Port.

XB-1 and the Overture Airliner

This achievement occurred eight years following Boom’s initial unveiling of the XB-1. The demonstrator serves as a scaled prototype – roughly one-third the size – of the Overture, the 64-passenger airliner Boom intends to ultimately produce.

Future Development of Overture

According to Boom CEO Blake Scholl, significant work remains to scale the technology for the Overture project. A key milestone, the initial engine firing for the Overture, is anticipated later this year.

Existing Orders for Overture

Despite being in development, the Overture aircraft has already garnered interest from major airlines. Both American Airlines and Japan Airlines have placed orders for the proposed supersonic aircraft.

Further Testing Planned

Brandenburg successfully landed the XB-1 shortly before noon ET. Boom anticipates conducting a second supersonic test flight within the coming weeks.

A Landmark Moment for Supersonic Travel

Scholl likened this event to SpaceX’s Falcon 1 reaching orbit in 2008, characterizing it as a pivotal moment for supersonic flight. He emphasized that this is the first supersonic jet developed outside of government-backed programs.

Breaking from Tradition

The Concorde, the previous supersonic passenger jet, was a joint project between the British and French governments before its retirement in 2003. Boom’s achievement represents a shift towards private sector innovation in this field.

The Need for Aviation Entrepreneurship

In a discussion with TechCrunch’s Connie Loizos, Scholl advocated for a resurgence of entrepreneurial activity within commercial aviation. He expressed a desire for more companies to pursue innovative approaches and push the boundaries of what’s possible.

Competition in the Supersonic Aircraft Market

While several companies are engaged in developing supersonic aircraft, many are concentrating on defense-related applications. Exosonic, another company focused on commercial supersonic aviation, ceased operations in November.

Boom’s Unique Position

Scholl acknowledged that Boom’s position as a primary startup dedicated to commercial supersonic flight has been somewhat isolated. However, he expressed satisfaction with the company’s focus on civilian applications.

Commercial vs. Defense Applications

Scholl differentiated between developing commercial aircraft and hypersonic weapons, stating that the latter represents a distinct effort. He affirmed the importance of both sectors, but highlighted the unique benefits of accessible supersonic passenger travel.

Collaboration with the U.S. Air Force

Boom is currently collaborating with the U.S. Air Force on certain projects, but Scholl reiterated that the primary objective remains the realization of supersonic passenger travel.

The Broader Impact of Supersonic Flight

Scholl concluded by emphasizing the potential benefits of this technology, including job creation, American leadership in aviation, and enhanced global connectivity. He believes there is considerable reason for optimism regarding the future of supersonic flight.